CN107031845B

CN107031845B - Dual mode toilet assembly

Info

Publication number: CN107031845B
Application number: CN201611064873.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 克里斯蒂安·赛布特; 延斯·维巴尔克; 乔治·罗斯
Original assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
Current assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
Priority date: 2015-11-27
Filing date: 2016-11-28
Publication date: 2022-01-04
Anticipated expiration: 2036-11-28
Also published as: JP2017124819A; US10307024B2; US20170150855A1; EP3173333B1; CN107031845A; EP3173333A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to toilets on vehicles. The invention provides a passenger lavatory unit including an enclosure structure and a toilet assembly. The toilet assembly includes a toilet bowl and a shroud structure providing support. The toilet assembly is provided as a hybrid toilet configured to function as a sitting toilet in a first mode of use and as a squatting toilet in a second mode of use. The shroud includes an upper rim at least partially surrounding an upper opening of the toilet bowl. To adopt a seated position during the first mode of use, the upper rim is provided as a toilet seat and a foot placement area is provided on a floor section in front of the toilet assembly. The protective cover comprises two lateral treading parts, and the two lateral treading parts are respectively arranged on the two sides of the toilet bowl. To assume the squat position during the second mode of use, the tread is provided as a raised resting platform on an intermediate level, which is provided above the floor level and below the toilet seat level. The invention also relates to an airborne interior space structure and a vehicle.

Description

Dual mode toilet assembly

Technical Field

The present invention relates to toilet assemblies, and more particularly to passenger lavatory units, on-board interior space structures, and vehicles.

Background

Washrooms are used, for example, by passengers on a vehicle such as an aircraft, a train carriage or a coach (bus). Toilets are typically provided inside the enclosure, forming a toilet. The toilet may be provided as a so-called sitting toilet, i.e. a toilet with a seat (seat) on which a passenger may sit during use. For example, DE 102011012281 describes a sitting toilet in a lavatory on board an aircraft in connection with aspects relating to hygiene. Another type of toilet is the so-called squat toilet, i.e. a toilet on which a user squats rather than sitting on a toilet seat during use of the toilet. Two different types of toilets are usually associated with different areas around the world where the respective type is mainly used. However, it has been shown that: a passenger familiar with one of the two types may experience discomfort in the event that the corresponding toilet of the other type is used. This can be a problem, for example, in vehicles through which a large number of different people from various regions of the world travel.

Disclosure of Invention

Accordingly, there may be a need for a toilet assembly on a vehicle that provides improved user comfort.

The object of the invention is solved by the subject matter of the present application, wherein further embodiments are incorporated in the present application. It should be noted that the following aspects of the invention also apply to passenger lavatory units, on-board interior space structures and vehicles.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a passenger lavatory unit comprising an enclosure and a toilet assembly. The enclosure structure at least partially encloses the lavatory space. The toilet assembly is disposed inside the lavatory space. The toilet assembly includes a toilet bowl for receiving fecal material and discharging the fecal material. The toilet assembly also includes a shield structure for providing support to a user during use of the toilet. The toilet assembly is provided as a hybrid toilet configured to: in a first mode of use as a sitting toilet and in a second mode of use as a squatting toilet. The shroud includes an upper rim that at least partially surrounds an upper opening of the toilet bowl. To allow the user to adopt a seated position during the first mode of use, the upper rim is provided as a toilet seat or toilet seat structure and a foot placement area is provided on the floor section in front of the toilet assembly. The protective cover also comprises two lateral treading parts, and two lateral treading parts are respectively arranged on two sides of the toilet bowl. In order to allow the user to assume a squat position during the second mode of use, the tread is provided as a raised footrest platform provided on an intermediate level which is provided above the floor level and below the toilet seat level.

The lavatory space is also referred to as a lavatory interior space. The term "passenger lavatory unit" refers to a lavatory on a vehicle provided for passengers as well as crew members.

It should be noted that, in relation to the present invention, the term "passenger" refers to a person on a vehicle while the vehicle is moving (i.e., during motion, travel, or cruise). The term passenger thus includes passengers (so-called guests on the vehicle), operators and other crew members. Instead of "passengers", the term "user" in connection with the use of the toilet is also used.

The term "hybrid toilet" refers to a toilet having two different modes of use integrated into one toilet. Hybrid toilets may also be referred to as dual function toilets or dual mode toilets.

The term "squat toilet" refers to a toilet used by a user in a squat position in which the user rests his feet. Squat toilets are also known as squats (squat-toilets). The term "seated toilet" refers to a toilet used by a user in a sitting position in which the user sits on a toilet seat (or sits on a seat-like structure). A sitting toilet is also known as a toilet bowl (sit-toilet). The terms "sitting" and "squatting" refer to the primary use, i.e., the intended primary use. The terms "sit" and "squat" refer to the posture of the user during defecation, i.e., during the process of defecation, that is, the terms "sit" and "squat" refer to the defecation posture. Of course, the term may also refer to the user's posture during urination.

Other modes of use are also possible, but may not be the preferred and intended mode of use. For example, the toilet may also be used in particular by male users in an upright or standing position, e.g. for urination.

The term "cover" refers to a shell-like structure that provides both the cover and shell functions for a toilet bowl, as well as the support function (support structure) for a user and for providing load bearing for the user during use of the toilet. The shroud also provides an upper open edge of the toilet bowl. For this purpose, the cover is provided with an engagement section for functional connection with the toilet bowl. In an example, the shroud is configured to rest on a toilet assembly (e.g., a toilet bowl, a toilet base, etc.). In another example, the shroud is provided with a support substructure that rests on the floor structure — for example, the support substructure will support/transfer the load into the floor pan.

Instead of "shield", the term "shield structure" is also used.

According to an example, the toilet bowl and the cover structure are provided as distinct components. Preferably, the shroud is mounted so as to be replaceable, while the toilet bowl is preferably configured to remain mounted and connected.

To allow replacement, the toilet bowl and shroud structures are separate in the function they must fulfil.

In an example, the toilet bowl and the shroud structure are separate components. However, the toilet bowl and the cover structure may be connected in the installed state. The provision as a distinct component allows for example the replacement of the shield in case the preferred use, i.e. the way of operation, has changed. Subsequently, replacing the shroud may change the dual mode toilet to a sitting toilet or a squatting toilet.

In an example, the toilet bowl remains connected to the supply line and the discharge conduit while the cover may be replaced or replaced.

A toilet bowl is a structure that provides a bowl-like receptacle or receptacle for receiving fecal material. The bowl is connected to a drain conduit and a supply conduit arranged to flush and clean the toilet bowl. A support for a urinal may be provided below the bowl-like receptacle.

According to an example, the cover structure is a one-piece structure providing a multifunctional support cover structure that transfers load from the upper rim and the tread to the floor structure and covers the toilet bowl while providing access to the upper opening of the toilet bowl.

In an example, the cover is arranged as a support structure for the load of the passenger, and the toilet bowl is arranged below and arranged not to carry the passenger load.

For example, the cover not only provides a cover of a toilet bowl from the top, which leaves access to the upper opening of the bowl, but, of course, the cover of the toilet from the front or sides.

The provision of a cover and toilet bowl allows for convenient manufacture and easier refurbishment, and is adaptable to changing user habits and performing maintenance.

In an example, a rigid structural support member is provided below the shroud that transfers load bearing forces from the upper edge and/or tread (i.e., tread surface) into a structural member such as a floor pan or other suitable structural element. Thus, the rigid structural support member forms a structural substructure or supports a load bearing substructure.

In an example, the tread is supported by a load transfer element that transfers force into the toilet bowl structure or into the floor structure.

The shield provides at least a visual connection with the toilet, the floor surface, the lateral wall sections and the rear wall section. The connection to adjacent wall and floor sections may be provided as a sealed connection, for example by providing a sealing arrangement along the interconnecting member to facilitate cleaning of the interior.

The term "sides" of the toilet bowl refers to the left and right sides of the toilet bowl when standing in front of the toilet assembly, or the left and right sides of the toilet when sitting on the toilet seat or when disposed in a squat position. The toilet assembly includes a virtual longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis is primarily defined by the intended use in the sitting mode and in the crouching mode. Thus, the longitudinal axis defines left and right with respect to the user. Thus, the longitudinal axis refers to the sagittal plane of the user. The longitudinal axis may also be visible in the form of an ellipse or an oval of the toilet bowl or toilet seat, but these may also be provided in a more circular shape. It should be noted that the longitudinal axis is given by the normal intended mode of use.

In an example, the longitudinal axis of the toilet assembly is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the wall section in front of which the toilet is arranged.

In another example, the longitudinal axis of the toilet assembly is oriented parallel or perpendicular to an axis defined by the extension of the interior space. For example, the space has a rectangular shape with respect to the floor space, while a slightly inclined wall closes the space, which is caused, for example, by a wall conforming to the shape of the fuselage of the aircraft. In another example, the longitudinal axis of the toilet assembly is oriented at a slight incline or tilt angle, i.e., slightly off-vertical arrangement. For example, the longitudinal axis has a deviation from a vertical position (═ 90 °) in the range of about 5 ° to 25 °.

The tread is also called tread surface, or footwell area, or pedal platform. The tread provides a so-called lateral step for allowing the user to achieve a crouch position or crouch position in which the user rests above the upper edge of the shield without having to touch the upper edge. The treads provide the desired lift (or lifting effect) of the user to allow for this non-contact crouch position while still allowing the toilet to be used in a seating mode in which contact with the treads is prevented.

The term "floor level" refers to the height level of the floor inside a toilet, e.g., the floor in front of the toilet assembly. The term "toilet seat level" refers to the height level of the toilet seat or the upper edge of the shield.

The term "approximately midway between …" refers to a range of about 1/5 to about 4/5, e.g., +/-10%, of the distance.

In an example, the step portion is integrally formed with the shield.

A handle portion or grip portion may be provided in the vicinity of the toilet to provide support options during use of the toilet, particularly as a squat toilet.

The provision of a toilet assembly as a hybrid toilet allows for the two modes of use described above, namely a sitting mode and a crouching mode. Thus, a passenger or crew member more familiar with using a toilet in a sitting mode may use a lavatory unit that has the same comfort level as a passenger or crew member more used to use a toilet in a crouching mode. The hybrid toilet allows all passengers to use the toilet in a manner preferred by the passengers. The possibility of using both types of hybrid toilets is based on providing two lateral treads on the middle level, so that the upper edge of the shield acts as an upper opening that can be used as a toilet seat. As a result of raising the footrest platform, the user is allowed to assume a crouching position while resting above the upper edge and thus ensuring a non-contact use in crouching mode. Thus, a washroom for passengers is provided that can be used in two ways, meaning that the comfort for the user is increased while still being compatible with two different methods of using the washroom unit, i.e. the toilet.

According to an example, the intermediate level is arranged at about halfway between the floor level and the toilet seat level. This provides the following effects: for most passengers, for example, in the range from a minimum defined by a 5% percentage of japanese women to a maximum defined by a 95% percentage of north american men, for example, associated with a body size of 148cm to 190cm, one can walk onto a foot-resting platform.

According to an example, the toilet seat level is disposed in a range of about 35 to 55 centimeters, e.g., 40 to 50 centimeters, above the floor level, wherein the intermediate level is disposed in a range of about 15 to 35 centimeters, e.g., 20 to 30 centimeters, above the floor level.

According to an example, the shield includes an upper edge and a tread as a one-piece structure. This allows for a facilitated manufacturing process and also facilitates the mounting process and the dismounting process.

In an example, the shroud is mounted to the wall structure and the floor structure, wherein the shroud transfers a user's load to the wall structure and the floor structure. Toilet bowls may also be used to transfer loads from the shroud. However, in the example, the shroud almost spans the toilet bowl in a free manner.

In an example, the shroud is a self-supporting structure.

According to an example, the tread is provided as a lateral tread section extending from the toilet bowl to the adjacent space enclosing surface.

As an example, the tread provides a continuous footwell between the toilet bowl and the wall section beside the toilet.

The term "space enclosing surface" refers to a surface such as a wall section of a shape defining an interior space or volume. In addition to the wall sections, the space closure surface can also be formed by an interior structure provided in the toilet, for example by a closure surface of a cabinet or a storage compartment.

In an example, the space enclosing structure comprises a wall section and a floor section. In an example, the term "wall section" also refers to a surface of internal equipment, such as cabinets and storage spaces.

By providing a tread extending to the adjacent space enclosing surface, the comfort for the user is further improved, because: the pedal section is provided with a maximum dimension and a gap is avoided.

According to an example, the tread is provided with a front edge displaced with respect to the shaped edge of the shield. The term "front" edge refers to the portion of the shroud that faces the toilet, while "rear" or rearward with respect to the toilet assembly refers to the portion that faces away from the toilet, i.e., the portion of the wall section that faces the rear of the toilet assembly.

In an example, the front edge of the toilet bowl extends beyond the front edge of the tread when viewed from the top or when projected on a floor plane, i.e., the front edge of the tread is displaced in a rearward manner. This also improves the comfort of the user in the seated position and also reduces the impact of the tread on the space occupied by the tread. As a further effect, the toilet may also be used in a standing mode, e.g. for male passengers.

According to an example, the step portion is provided as a suspended portion that protrudes in a forward manner such that a floor resting portion is provided below at least a portion of the step portion.

In an example, it may be provided that: the user can place his feet at least partially under the tread. As an effect, the comfort of the user is further increased by providing an increased space for allowing a resting position of the user's feet during use of the toilet, thereby ensuring various configurations for using the toilet.

According to an example, the upper edge of the shield comprises a raised front portion providing the splash guard. Thus, the splash guard provides protection against liquid droplets reaching the area in front of the toilet bowl. For example, the splash guard is suitable during the second mode of use, i.e., crouch mode.

According to an example, a toilet lid is provided, which is pivotally mounted at the rear of the upper rim by a hinge. The toilet lid is foldable along a line parallel to the pivot axis of the hinge.

The lid can be folded so that it is open and extends upwards for only half the length of the lid. Thus, the lid is provided as a two-part lid which is folded in half in the open position. Alternatively or additionally, the toilet seat may be arranged to be also foldable in two.

According to an example, in addition to the upper edge of the shield, a movable toilet seat is provided, which is pivotably mounted at the rear of the upper edge by a hinge. As an option, the toilet seat can be folded along a line parallel to the pivot axis of the hinge.

According to an example, a toilet assembly is provided as a configurable toilet kit having at least a first type of shroud and a second type of shroud. A first type of shroud is provided having a shroud for the upper rim and two lateral treads of the dual mode toilet type. The second type of shield is provided with a shield for only the upper rim of the sitting toilet type. The first type of shield and the second type of shield are provided as replaceable shields configured to be replaced with a corresponding other type of shield.

In an example, the shroud and toilet bowl are separate items having different replacement or adaptation cycle times.

For example, the shield may be replaced during the rollover time of the aircraft. During the reconfiguration, a toilet bowl including the supply infrastructure is retained. For easy and quick replacement, the cover is provided with a plug-in connection with the toilet bowl. The lateral connection with the inner space closure wall surface may be provided by an abutment connection forming an abutment seal structure.

The provision as a kit also allows for repeatable adaptations or continuous adaptations, for example. The provision as a kit allows in particular the adaptation of the vehicle to the intended field of use. For example, aircraft primarily used in Asian regions may be equipped with most dual mode toilets. If the operating airline decides to use such aircraft primarily for european destinations, it can be expected that most of the european passengers, and the dual mode toilet can be temporarily replaced with a seated toilet structure. This requires only replacement of the shield. The following structure with all related art joints and connectors may be retained.

According to a second aspect of the invention, an onboard interior space structure is provided, comprising at least one passenger section for accommodating passengers, and at least one passenger lavatory unit according to one of the above-mentioned examples. The at least one passenger lavatory unit is accessible from the at least one passenger section.

This allows the passenger to use the lavatory unit with improved user comfort.

The term "onboard" refers to the interior space of a vehicle. For example, an onboard interior space is a cabin space for a cabin section in an aircraft, or a cabin space for a coach (bus), or a compartment or room in a passenger compartment, or a cabin space of a van.

In an example, the onboard interior space structure is a cabin structure of an aircraft, for example.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising: a body structure; and at least one onboard interior according to the preceding example, the onboard interior having at least one lavatory unit according to one of the above examples. The vehicle is arranged as at least one of the group consisting of: train carriages, coaches and aircraft. The at least one onboard interior space is provided by the body structure.

For example, the at least one lavatory unit is disposed within the at least one interior space.

According to an example, the vehicle is an aircraft, the body structure is a fuselage structure, and the fuselage houses at least one interior space in the form of at least one cabin structure. The at least one lavatory unit is disposed within the at least one cabin structure.

According to one aspect, a toilet is provided having a specially adapted shield that allows passengers to use the toilet in a sitting mode and in a squatting mode. Thus, two substantially different types of use of toilets are embodied in a single type of toilet, i.e. a hybrid toilet. This is achieved by the particular configuration of the shield which provides an upper seat for seated use mode, and a laterally disposed elevated platform for crouch use mode.

The shroud and toilet bowl are separate structures, i.e., when combined form two separate components of a hybrid toilet.

These and other aspects of the invention are apparent from and will be elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter.

Drawings

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings:

fig. 1 schematically shows a first example of a passenger lavatory unit in a top view;

FIG. 2 shows the example of FIG. 1 in a front view;

fig. 3 shows the example of fig. 1 and 2 in a side view;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an example of a hybrid toilet;

FIG. 5 shows a top view of the example of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 shows another top view of the example shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 shows another top view of the example of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the example shown in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the example shown in FIG. 8 with the toilet lid open;

FIG. 10 illustrates another example of a hybrid toilet in perspective view;

FIG. 11 shows a top view of the example shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an example of a load bearing structure disposed below a shroud;

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates an example occupant using the hybrid toilet in a squat mode;

figures 14a to 14f show different states of movement of a user when entering a squat mode for use of the toilet;

fig. 15 schematically shows a plan view of an example of an onboard interior space structure; and

fig. 16 schematically shows a cross-section of an example of a vehicle.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a passenger lavatory unit 10 in a top view. Passenger lavatory unit 10 includes an enclosure structure 12, with enclosure structure 12 at least partially enclosing a lavatory space 14. In addition, a toilet assembly 16 is provided that is disposed inside the lavatory space 14. The toilet assembly 16 includes a toilet bowl (bowl)18 for receiving and discharging fecal material.

Further, the shield structure 20 is provided for providing support to a user during use of the toilet.

The toilet assembly 16 is provided as a hybrid toilet assembly or dual mode toilet assembly configured to: in a first mode of use as a sitting toilet and in a second mode of use as a squatting toilet (and see below). The shroud structure 20 (or shroud) includes an upper rim 22 (and see fig. 2), the upper rim 22 at least partially surrounding an upper opening 24 of the toilet bowl 18. To allow the user to adopt a seated position during the first mode of use, the upper rim 22 is provided as a toilet seat 26 and a foot placement area 28 is provided on the floor section at the front of the toilet assembly. The shroud includes two lateral treads 30 on either side of the toilet bowl 18. To allow the user to adopt a squatting position during the second mode of use, the tread 30 is provided as an elevated (elevated) footrest platform arranged on an intermediate level 32, which intermediate level 32 is provided above the floor level 32 and below the toilet seat level 36.

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the interior of the lavatory unit 10 of FIG. 1; and fig. 3 shows a side view of the interior of the lavatory unit 10 of fig. 1.

In addition to the toilet assembly 16, a hand basin 38 having a sink 40 may optionally be provided. In fig. 3, as another option, a mirror 42 is also shown. Of course, as yet another option, other interior features may also be provided within the lavatory space 14 of the passenger lavatory unit 10. In fig. 3, two lateral treads 30 are shown, as well as a mid-level 32, a floor level 34 and a toilet seat level 36.

Hereinafter, i.e. with respect to fig. 4 to 11, the shroud 20 is mainly described and the adjacent wall structures or inner surfaces are not further shown for visibility reasons.

In fig. 4, another example of the shroud 20 is shown. As an option, an intermediate level 32 is provided at a position substantially midway between the floor level 34 and the toilet seat level 36, i.e. the arrangement of the tread 30 as a raised footrest platform. For example, the toilet seat level 36 is disposed in a range of about 40 centimeters to 50 centimeters above the floor level 34. Thus, the intermediate level 32 may be arranged to be arranged at about 20 to 30 centimeters above the floor level.

As an option, it may be provided that: the shroud 20 includes an upper edge 22 and a tread portion 30 as a one-piece structure.

As shown in fig. 4, in one option, the shield is provided as a self-supporting structure that allows for the transfer of loads (from a seated/crouching user) and provides a cover for the toilet bowl.

The tread 30 is provided as a lateral tread section 44 that extends from the toilet bowl to an adjacent space enclosing surface, such as a lateral side wall 46 (see fig. 1) or a lateral cabinet 48 (see also fig. 1).

As an option, the example of fig. 4 is arranged such that the upper edge 22 of the shroud 20 includes a raised front 50 that provides a splash guide.

In fig. 5, a top view of the example of fig. 4 is shown. As an option, the step 30 is provided with a front edge 52 displaced relative to a front edge 54 of the shield.

Fig. 6 shows a further plan view. Optionally, one or more integrated cleaning nozzles 56 are provided along the inner edge of the upper edge 22.

Referring to fig. 4, as another option, it may be configured that: the step portion 30 is provided as a suspended portion 56 that protrudes in a forward manner such that a floor resting portion 58 is provided below at least a portion of the step portion 30.

In fig. 7, a top view is shown. As an option, a toilet lid 60 may be provided, the toilet lid 60 being pivotally mounted at the rear of the upper edge by a hinge 62. The toilet lid 60 is foldable along a line 64 parallel to the pivot axis 66 of the hinge 62.

Fig. 8 shows another perspective view of the example shown in fig. 7.

Fig. 9 shows a similar perspective view, but with the toilet lid 60 open. Due to the provision of the foldable cover, the cover 60 extends only half of the length of the cover upwards when opened. This allows the cover 60 to be opened even if the adjacent inner wall structure of the lavatory unit is tilted inwardly, which may be due to the inner wall conforming to the shape of the adjacent fuselage structure (not further shown), for example.

Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of another example. As a further option, which can also be combined with the above-described foldable cover for other options, such as displacement of the front edge 52 to the front edge 54, or the overhang 56, a movable toilet seat 68 is provided, which movable toilet seat 68 is pivotably mounted at the rear of the upper edge by a hinge.

In an example, a toilet seat and lid are mounted to the shroud, providing a load transfer structure. Thus, the cover provides a supportive cover for the toilet bowl. Accordingly, toilet bowls are provided in view of the particular use of collecting and discharging liquids and mixing waste.

As a further option (not further shown), the toilet seat 68 may also be folded along a line parallel to the pivot axis of the hinge, for example to allow the open state of the seat even when the adjacent inner wall surfaces are disposed in an inwardly inclined manner. As a further option, a cover may be provided in addition to the toilet seat 68. As described above, the cover 70 may also be provided to be foldable.

Fig. 11 shows the example of fig. 10 in a top view.

In an example not further shown, the toilet assembly 16 is provided as a configurable toilet kit having at least a first type of shroud and a second type of shroud. A first type of shroud is provided having the above-mentioned upper rim 22 and two lateral steps 30 for the dual mode toilet type. The second type of cover is provided with only a cover for providing an upper rim of the sitting toilet type. The first type of shield and the second type of shield are provided as replaceable shields configured to replace a corresponding other type of shield.

The separation of the toilet bowl and the cover allows for adaptation to the needs of the user. The toilet bowl, which is the supply and connection portion of the toilet assembly, may be retained, which avoids the need for reinstallation.

Fig. 12 shows an example of the toilet assembly 16 with the shroud removed. As can be seen, the toilet assembly 16 includes a toilet bowl 18 connected to various supply lines 70 and a drain 72. In addition, a base unit 74 may be provided to provide load bearing support for the toilet bowl 18.

In order to provide additional load bearing support for the user in the crouch mode, two lateral support surfaces 76 are optionally provided, the two lateral support surfaces 76 being configured to abut the shield 20 below the lateral step 30 described above. Thus, the load may be transferred directly into the floor pan or into structural members that are also used to carry the toilet bowl 18.

As a further option, an abutment element 78 is provided, said abutment element 78 being configured to abut the shield in an area of the upper edge below the respective surface, on top of which the user desires to sit during the sitting mode. Thus, the toilet bowl 18 is also used for carrying purposes. Thus, the shroud 20 may have a reduced weight.

As another option, the shroud 20 may be placed on the toilet assembly from the top through the structural components described above, further facilitating the installation and assembly steps.

Fig. 13 schematically illustrates a user using the hybrid toilet as a squat toilet. As an option, additional support handles 80 may be provided adjacent the toilet assembly 16 to provide additional support, particularly during the squat mode of use.

In fig. 14a to 14f, schematic illustrations are provided which indicate different steps when a user is seated on the toilet in the crouch mode. Beginning with fig. 14a, a user enters a room facing the toilet assembly. In fig. 14b, the user has turned his or her body and is now standing in front of the toilet assembly and looking away from the toilet assembly towards the door. In the next step shown in fig. 14c, the user places one of his/her feet on one of the two lateral tread portions 30. Subsequently, as shown in fig. 14d, the user grips one of the handles with one hand and rests the other hand on the adjacent upper surface of the washbasin structure, to then lift the other foot onto the other of the two lateral steps, as shown in fig. 14 e. The user may then squat into a squat position while standing on both treadles, as shown in fig. 14 f. Of course, for re-erection, a similar mirrored corresponding step flow may be used. It should be noted that the steps shown relate only to one of many possible ways of entering the crouch position and getting up again.

To the extent that the toilet is used in the sitting mode, not shown in further detail, the user simply sits down onto the toilet with the upper rim 22 as a toilet seat 26, when set in the standing mode in the middle top image.

Fig. 15 shows a top view of an onboard interior space structure 100, which onboard interior space structure 100 comprises at least one passenger section 102 for accommodating passengers. For example, passenger seats 104 are shown disposed on both sides of an aisle 106 in a three-seater configuration. Of course, other types of seating arrangements may be provided. Furthermore, a washroom unit 108 is provided. The lavatory unit 108 is provided as one example of the examples of the passenger lavatory unit 10 described above. As shown with dashed arrow 110, at least one passenger lavatory unit 108 is accessible from at least one passenger section 102.

Fig. 16 shows a schematic cross section of a vehicle 200, e.g. an aircraft. The vehicle 200 includes a body structure 202. In case the vehicle is an aircraft, the body structure is a fuselage structure 204 enclosing a cabin structure 206. The vehicle 200 also includes at least one example of an onboard interior 208 as discussed above. The at least one on-board unit space includes at least one lavatory unit as described above in various examples.

The vehicle 200 is provided as, for example, a train car, or a coach or aircraft. As indicated, the at least one onboard interior space 208 is provided by the vehicle body structure 202.

For example, in the case of an aircraft, the fuselage structure 204 accommodates at least one interior space in the form of at least one cabin structure 206. Thus, the at least one lavatory unit is disposed within the at least one cabin structure 206.

It should be noted that embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to different subject matters. In particular, some embodiments have been described with reference to an apparatus or unit, while other embodiments have been described with reference to structures and systems, i.e., vehicles. However, the person skilled in the art will gather from the above and the following description: unless otherwise stated, any combination between features relating to different claims is also considered to be disclosed by the present application, in addition to any combination of features belonging to one type. However, all features may be combined to provide a synergistic effect beyond a simple summation of the features.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary and not restrictive. The present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

In the claims, "comprising" does not exclude any other elements or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A passenger lavatory unit (10), comprising:

-an enclosure structure (12), the enclosure structure (12) at least partially enclosing a lavatory space (14); and

-a toilet assembly (16), the toilet assembly (16) being disposed inside the lavatory space;

wherein the toilet assembly comprises:

a toilet bowl (18), the toilet bowl (18) for receiving and discharging fecal material; and

a shroud (20), the shroud (20) for providing support to a user during use of the toilet;

wherein the toilet assembly is provided as a hybrid toilet configured to: in a first mode of use as a sitting toilet and in a second mode of use as a squatting toilet;

wherein the shroud comprises an upper rim (22), the upper rim (22) at least partially enclosing an upper opening (24) of the toilet bowl; and, to allow a user to adopt a seated position in the first mode of use, the upper edge of the shroud is provided as a toilet seat (26) and a foot placement area (28) is provided on a floor section in front of the toilet assembly;

wherein the shield comprises two lateral stepping parts (30), one of which is arranged on each of two sides of the toilet bowl; and, in order to allow the user to adopt a squat position in the second mode of use, the tread of the shield is provided as a raised resting platform, which is provided on an intermediate horizontal plane (32), the intermediate horizontal plane (32) being provided above a floor level (34) and below a toilet seat level (36);

wherein the toilet bowl and the shroud are provided as distinct components; and is

Wherein the shroud is a shell-like structure that provides both a cover and shell function for the toilet bowl and a support function for a user and for providing load bearing for the user during use of the toilet; and wherein the shroud is provided with an engagement section for functional connection with the toilet bowl.

2. The passenger lavatory unit of claim 1, wherein the shroud is configured to be replaceable while the toilet bowl is configured to remain installed and connected.

3. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the shroud is a one-piece structure that provides a multifunctional support cover structure that transfers load from the upper rim and the tread to a floor structure and covers the toilet bowl while providing access to the upper opening of the toilet bowl.

4. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the intermediate level is disposed about midway between the floor level and the toilet seat level.

5. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the toilet seat level is disposed in a range of 40cm to 50cm above the floor level, and the intermediate level is disposed in a range of 20cm to 30cm above the floor level.

6. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the shield includes the upper edge and the tread as a one-piece structure.

7. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the tread is provided as a lateral tread section (44), the lateral tread section (44) extending from the toilet bowl or the shroud to an adjacent enclosed space surface (46, 48).

8. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the tread is provided with a front edge (52), the front edge (52) of the tread being displaced relative to a front edge (54) of the shield.

9. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the step portion is provided as an overhanging portion (56), and the overhanging portion (56) protrudes in a forward manner so that a floor resting portion (58) is provided below at least a part of the step portion.

10. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the upper edge of the shield includes a raised front portion (50) providing a splash guard.

11. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

a toilet lid (60) is provided, the toilet lid (60) being pivotally mounted at the rear of the upper rim by a hinge (62); and wherein the one or more of the one or more,

the toilet lid is foldable along a line (64) parallel to a pivot axis (66) of the hinge.

12. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

in addition to the upper edge of the shield, a movable toilet seat is provided, which is pivotably mounted at the rear of the upper edge by a hinge.

13. The passenger lavatory unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein,

the toilet assembly is provided as a configurable toilet kit having at least a first type of shroud and a second type of shroud;

wherein the first type of shield is provided as a shield for a dual mode toilet type having the upper rim and two lateral treads, and the second type of shield is provided as a shield for a sitting toilet type having only the upper rim; and is

Wherein the first type of shield and the second type of shield are provided as replaceable shields configured to be replaced by a corresponding other type of shield.

14. The passenger lavatory unit of claim 12, wherein the movable toilet seat is foldable along a line parallel to a pivot axis of the hinge.

15. An airborne interior space structure (100) comprising:

-at least one passenger section (102) for accommodating a passenger; and

-at least one passenger washroom unit (108) according to one of claims 1 to 14;

wherein at least one passenger lavatory unit is accessible from the at least one passenger section.

16. A vehicle (200) comprising:

-a body structure (202); and

-at least one onboard interior space (208), the onboard interior space (208) having at least one passenger washroom unit according to one of claims 1 to 14;

wherein the vehicle is provided as at least one of the group consisting of a train car, a coach, and an aircraft; and is

Wherein the at least one onboard interior space is provided by the body structure.

17. The vehicle of claim 16,

the vehicle is an aircraft, the body structure is a fuselage structure (204), and the fuselage structure houses the at least one interior space in the form of at least one cabin structure (206); and wherein the one or more of the one or more,

the at least one lavatory unit is disposed within the at least one cabin structure.